It might be challenging to bring up assisted living for seniors with parents. Transitioning to a senior living facility is often seen as a permanent strike to an elder’s freedom. Many older people persistently avoid discussing this subject for fear of being forcibly evicted from their homes. Adult children and even spouses avoid the topic out of concern for the reactions of their loved ones.
While relocating is a significant change, assisted living for seniors may increase independence, boost social interactions, and help with daily living chores (ADLs).
Sadly, many families put off this topic for too long, and when a sudden need for a higher standard of care results from an accident or medical emergency, unfortunately, there’s just too much to handle.
Here are some pointers for bringing up assisted living with your parents.
Do Your Research
Make sure you first do your homework. Even though it appears obvious, it’s crucial to understand the different “care levels” of assisted living and what each includes if you want to talk to your parents about assisted living for seniors. Knowing what you are talking about will help when it’s time for a conversation.
Start Slowly and Assume a Positive Position
Even the most understanding parents will likely object if you immediately suggest they consider moving to supportive housing. Start the discussion positively and avoid discussing assisted living in the initial conversations.
Instead, find out how they’re adjusting to the home, what difficulties they might be experiencing on their own, and how you might assist. Inquire about their health, and pay close attention to any information they may withhold out of concern for your comfort.
Try to comprehend your parents’ worries. Why are they being held back? What matters to them? Please pay close attention to what they say and try to spot any recurring issues or changes you see. If you and the other person concur on the issue but disagree on the remedy, look into it further.
What specifically about the issue or proposed remedy is the source of the disagreement? Are there any emotions or sentiments that are preventing change? Don’t undervalue the strength of emotions conveyed; all too often, it’s emotions related to life, identity, or the future that make solutions difficult to implement.
Continue to Engage the Parents in Decision-Making
Your aging parents are grownups just as you are. Encourage them to have a say in where they want to spend their lives, especially if you’re discussing long-term care in the future while they have a high degree of freedom. You should accept your parents’ desires if they can still function normally and have the mental ability to make their own choices.
However, in general, if an elderly mother wants to live in a particular assisted living community, you must keep talking about that facility. There are specific situations when instructions from a doctor or unique medical requirements need to be considered. Older parents may struggle when another person needs to take care of them since, with age, sometimes comes greater pride. Provided you listen to them and consider their sincere desires and concern rather than your own, the talk with a parent may go smoothly.
Looking for Assisted Living for Seniors?
American Grand offers a comfortable and safe environment for seniors. We focus on ensuring a cohesive and socially valuable atmosphere where seniors can thrive. Not only do we offer many special activities to keep the seniors engaged, but we also specialize in memory care to help out your loved ones.